So, you're thinking about getting a Scion FRS as your first car, huh? That's a pretty cool choice! The Scion FRS, later known as the Toyota 86 and now the GR86, has a reputation for being a fun, sporty, and engaging ride. But is it really a good first car? Let's dive into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

What Makes the Scion FRS Appealing?

First off, let's talk about why the Scion FRS is so darn appealing in the first place. I mean, come on, it looks fantastic! Its sleek design and low profile give it that sports car vibe that many young drivers crave. Beyond its looks, the FRS offers a unique driving experience that's hard to find in other cars in its price range.

Driving Dynamics: The FRS is all about the driving experience. It boasts a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout, which is a big deal. Most affordable cars are front-wheel-drive (FWD), which can be more forgiving and predictable, but RWD offers a different level of engagement and fun. With RWD, you get a more balanced feel, sharper turn-in, and the ability to kick the tail out a bit (safely, of course!). This makes the FRS a fantastic car for learning car control and developing your driving skills. The FRS is known for its nimble handling and precise steering. It's lightweight, which means it feels responsive and agile on the road. You'll feel connected to the car and the road, making every drive an adventure. The FRS isn't about straight-line speed; it's about cornering, drifting (again, safely!), and enjoying the art of driving. This can make it incredibly rewarding for new drivers who want to learn the nuances of performance driving. Plus, the availability of a manual transmission makes the FRS even more engaging. Learning to drive a manual is a valuable skill, and the FRS's gearbox is smooth and precise, making it a joy to row through the gears. This adds another layer of involvement and control, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Affordability: Compared to other sports cars, the Scion FRS is relatively affordable, especially on the used market. This makes it an accessible option for young drivers who want something sporty without breaking the bank. Its affordability extends beyond the initial purchase price. The FRS is reasonably fuel-efficient, which can save you money at the pump. While it's not a hybrid, it gets decent gas mileage for a sports car, making it practical for daily driving. However, it's worth noting that the FRS might require premium fuel, which can add to the running costs. Insurance costs for the FRS can be moderate, but this will depend on your age, driving record, and location. It's always a good idea to get a quote before you buy to make sure you can afford the insurance premiums. Maintenance costs for the FRS are generally reasonable. The engine is reliable, and parts are readily available. However, because it's a sports car, some maintenance items, like tires and brakes, might be more expensive than on a regular sedan. Overall, the Scion FRS offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and affordability. It's a car that can grow with you as you develop your driving skills and tastes. For young drivers who are passionate about cars and driving, the FRS can be an excellent choice.

Potential Downsides for a First-Time Driver

Okay, so the FRS sounds awesome, but let's pump the brakes for a second. There are some potential downsides that you need to consider, especially as a first-time driver. While the Scion FRS is a blast to drive, it's not without its drawbacks, particularly when considered as a first car. Before you get too caught up in the excitement of owning a sporty coupe, let's take a realistic look at some of the challenges you might face. Guys, it's super important to consider practicality.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) in Adverse Conditions: Remember that RWD we talked about? While it's great for fun and performance, it can be a handful in rain, snow, or ice. RWD cars are more prone to losing traction in slippery conditions, which can be scary for inexperienced drivers. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you'll definitely need to invest in a good set of winter tires and learn how to drive safely in the snow. Even with winter tires, RWD can be challenging, and you'll need to be extra cautious. The FRS doesn't have the advanced driver-assistance systems that are common in newer cars. Features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control can help prevent accidents and make driving easier, especially for new drivers. The FRS lacks these features, which means you'll need to be extra vigilant and rely on your own skills. If you're not used to driving a RWD car, it's easy to overcorrect when the rear end starts to slip, which can lead to a spin. It's a good idea to practice in a safe, open area to get a feel for how the car behaves in different situations. Take the car to an empty parking lot on a rainy day and practice controlling the car when it slides. This can help you build confidence and develop the skills you need to stay safe on the road.

Limited Practicality: The Scion FRS is a small, two-door coupe. That means it doesn't have a lot of space for passengers or cargo. The back seats are tiny and not very comfortable, so they're really only suitable for short trips or small children. And the trunk is also on the small side, so you might have trouble fitting luggage or groceries. If you need a car that can haul a lot of stuff or carry multiple passengers regularly, the FRS might not be the best choice. The low ground clearance of the FRS can also be a problem. It's easy to scrape the front bumper on speed bumps or steep driveways. You'll need to be careful when navigating these obstacles to avoid damaging the car. While the Scion FRS is undeniably cool and fun to drive, it's important to be realistic about its limitations. As a first car, it might not be the most practical or forgiving choice. But if you're willing to accept these challenges and learn how to drive safely, the FRS can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Just be sure to do your research, practice your driving skills, and prioritize safety above all else.

Safety Considerations

Safety should always be a top priority, especially for new drivers. The Scion FRS has decent safety ratings, but it's important to remember that it's a small car, which means it might not offer as much protection in a crash as a larger vehicle. In terms of safety features, the FRS comes with standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and airbags. However, it lacks some of the more advanced safety technologies that are available on newer cars, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and make driving safer, especially for inexperienced drivers. The FRS is also a popular car for modifications, and some modifications can actually make the car less safe. For example, lowering the suspension can reduce ground clearance and make the car more prone to rollovers. It's important to be careful when modifying the FRS and to only make modifications that are safe and legal. To enhance safety, consider investing in a dashcam to record any incidents on the road. This can be helpful in the event of an accident. Also, take a defensive driving course to improve your skills and learn how to anticipate and avoid potential hazards.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're not sure about the Scion FRS, there are other cars you might want to consider. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is another small, sporty roadster that's known for its excellent handling and fun-to-drive nature. It's a bit more expensive than the FRS, but it's also more refined and comfortable. The Honda Civic Si is a sporty version of the popular Civic. It offers a good balance of performance, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It's also available with a manual transmission, which makes it fun to drive. The Volkswagen GTI is a sporty hatchback that's known for its peppy engine and refined handling. It's a bit more expensive than the FRS, but it's also more practical and comfortable. Consider a used Subaru BRZ, which is mechanically identical to the Scion FRS but may have slightly different styling and features. Explore options like the Ford Fiesta ST or Focus ST for affordable, fun-to-drive alternatives with good handling and performance.

Final Verdict: Is the Scion FRS a Good First Car?

So, is the Scion FRS a good first car? It really depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you're passionate about driving, willing to learn, and prioritize fun over practicality, then the FRS can be a great choice. However, if you need a car that's safe, practical, and easy to drive in all conditions, then you might want to consider something else. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive the FRS and see if it's the right fit for you. Take it for a spin in different conditions and see how it feels. And don't forget to get a pre-purchase inspection to make sure the car is in good condition. Consider your lifestyle, driving environment, and personal preferences when making your decision. If you live in an area with harsh winters, the FRS might not be the best choice. If you need a car that can haul a lot of stuff, the FRS might not be the best choice. But if you're looking for a fun, sporty, and engaging car that will make you smile every time you get behind the wheel, the Scion FRS could be perfect!